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Archive for April, 2013

Earlier this month I got to spend time with this adorable family in their beautiful home for a lifestyle session. Each of the kids showed me their rooms and all of their favorite toys – it really gave me a chance to see their personalities and a glimpse into who they are. I love these types of sessions because I get to capture the family just as they are, whether its cuddling on the couch, reading a book together, or just exchanging silly smiles 🙂 Its the in-between moments like these that make up YOUR story.

If you’re anything like me, you get bored of the same old picture styles and poses. That’s why today’s guest post is all about adding interest to your photos with props. Props can add a bit of the unexpected to your photos and help tell your story. Clarissa from Coco Sailore (an ADORABLE Etsy store offering handmade curios such as vibrant mason jars, cheerful pennant banners, colorful garlands, and fun DIY kits) provides insight on how to personalize your photo session!

My dad has a picture of six of his younger siblings ranging from high school to elementary school age, each holding an item that was important in their lives at that time: a flute, basketball, trophy, etc. Growing up I loved looking at that picture because it revealed a peek into the younger lives of my aunts and uncles. Props in family photos don’t have to be meaningless; they’re a great way to visually preserve a special time in your family’s life. Are you an artistic family? Stage a whimsical photo shoot! Does your family like to have a good time? Throw in a festive pennant banner! Every family has something that makes them feel united. Show it!

My most adored family photos from my blossoming marriage were taken in an old triplex apartment that we used to live in. The first time my husband introduced me to our post-honeymoon residence, I nearly died. It was putrid green, run down, and the bathroom was literally a water closet. But after three years I was in love with the place, with its charm and little nuances. Before we moved out of state we decided to take family photos around our beloved apartment doing some of our favorite things: reading books, playing Scrabble, baking homemade bread, and dancing to our vintage records. Those photos mean the most to me because our props were a part of what made our first few years of marriage special.

Photographs can potentially capture the best and the worst in family sessions. To the chagrin of my parents, my Minnie Mouse teddy will always be in our formal extended family photos. (But now it’s cute to look at the pouty-face 3 year-old whose doll was being threatened to have taken away if she didn’t cooperate with the photographer. I mean, it is cute…right, Mom?) As you consider the props you want in your photos remember that you and your family’s style changes, obsessions may fade, and there’s no looking back. Embrace this wonderful moment in your family’s lives.

Check out Coco Sailore and browse Clarissa’s beautiful hand made pennants and garland – all of which can double as props for your shoot, as well as brighten up your home 🙂

WARNING: be prepared to see the cutest couple on earth!Here is Part 2 of Erin’s shoot. For the last half of her session, her boyfriend joined in, and the two of them rocked it! Aren’t they so cute together? 😉

Last week I had the pleasure of visiting and photographing Glitter Lifestyle Boutique for their 1 year anniversary party. Glitter is a hip boutique located in the heart of downtown Claremont, and offers unique boho-chic apparel, accessories, housewares and gifts. I fell in love with the chevron print top below – isn’t it cute?! 😉

Become a Glitter Gal and check out this super cute boutique at 206 West Bonita Avenue in Claremont

One of the most common questions I get prior to a photoshoot is “what should I wear?”, and its a great question!This Fashion Friday is all about choosing outfits that reflect your personal style. Be bold and think outside of the box – opt for bright colors and a variety of textures, fabric and patterns. And don’t forget the accessories! Hats, scarves, shoes, jewelry, etc can add so much interest to your pictures, so bring LOTS!Take your look to the next level by getting your hair and makeup professionally done the day of your shoot; it can make all the difference, not only in your confidence, but it really gives your photos a polished look. I recommend investing in professional artists mainly because they know how to apply makeup for the camera and can bring out your best features 🙂So when you are planning your outfits for your shoot, go ahead and bring that fancy dress or your favorite pair of heels. Show off your style!Looking for some more inspiration? Check out Polyvore and of course my fave, Pinterest. I’ve got inspiration boards for every type of shoot, from boudoir, senior, family and everything in between.Check out some of these cute finds from Evoking You